Sigma Nu - University of Washington

3 A round 50 Sigma Nu alumni from the late '70s to the mid-'80s recently gathered in Spokane, transforming the city into a sea of purple for an unforgettable weekend. What started three years ago as a small golf event has turned into an opportunity for alumni to reconnect, play a little golf (thankfully, the forgiving "best ball" format), and meet up at the home of Jay Underwood '81 to enjoy the view, the pool, amazing food, a few beers and, of course, watching the Huskies win on the road! Lance Basler '06 on Sigma Nu and Sports Management THE GAMMA CHI IMPACT "Having this Founder's Day fresh in my mind… Sigma Nu has had such an impact on my life that I probably didn't even realize at the time or 10 years ago. It created friends for life—I can't imagine where I'd be in my life without that experience." F or a transfer student like Lance Basler '06, fraternities offer a great way to find a social circle on campus. Lance found a home at Gamma Chi, but he didn't know at the time just how impactful Sigma Nu would be. From career opportunities to lifelong bonds, the fraternal experience has meant the world to him. THE PERFECT FRATERNAL FIT "It was a pretty easy decision once I had seen and been to a few places—just good people and good core values," Lance said of meeting young men in Gamma Chi with similar interests and a positive atmosphere. Lance quickly adopted the role of initiate trainer, following in the footsteps of his big brother. Lance enjoyed Gamma Chi's pairing with Alpha Chi Omega for intramural softball and flag football, staying competitive while making memories and growing bonds. He maintains that competitive spirit in his sports industry career that started through Chris Cassaday '06 suggesting a sports management MBA program at San Diego State. WORKING IN SPORTS Prior to the MBA program, Lance moved throughout the United States and even to Ireland and the Netherlands for a technical consulting job. Once he arrived in San Diego in 2011, Lance began a season-long internship with the university's football team that opened new doors for his career. From Mizzou football to a New England Patriots internship to becoming the director of player personnel at Middle Tennessee State University, Lance worked his way toward a goal of becoming a director of football operations. He accomplished this dream at age 28, earning the role at Louisiana Tech. While Lance loved the work, he found it tough to manage the lifestyle that accompanied his position. Finding an opportunity to work in lacrosse, Lance joined USA Lacrosse operations prior to a management role with the NLL's New York Riptide. Today, Lance is proud to work as the lacrosse operations and experience manager for the Premier Lacrosse League. "I don't just have one team that I work for—I have eight teams and I have to essentially elevate them all," Lance said about his current position. "I know many players in the league and have previous relationships with them, so I can go to them for feedback and insight." STAYING CONNECTED Lance's career has kept him on the move, but he is glad to maintain fraternal connections whenever possible. The recent Founder's Day celebration provided a great opportunity to meet with 150 brothers from various generations, including one pledge class brother on the alumni board. Lance has been married to his wife for eight years, and he was proud to have Chris Cassaday as the best man at his wedding while Matt Schultz '06 officiated the ceremony. Lance's wife is also in professional sports, working for the XFL. The two recently moved to Denver, and they enjoy traveling whenever possible. You can connect with Lance at lancebasler@gmail.com. Lance and Leslie celebrate his medal with Team USA. Lance with his wife, Leslie. Does your pledge class have a tradition or a fun way you like to connect? If yes, scan the QR code to share it on our Sigma Nu Facebook group. Reuniting in Brotherhood Left: Beers, burgers, and brotherly bonding. Right: Thank you to local brothers for hosting this fantastic turnout! Huskies, Golf, and Sigma Nu Alumni Converge in Spokane

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